Nature Connection

If you haven’t already, be sure to take a look at the online nature programs we have available for youth and adults. Our programs offer weekly video classes on wilderness skills and nature-focused mindfulness. All are available at no cost during this time.

For Youth:

Woodland - Ages 4-6

Evergreen - Ages 7-11

Ironwood - Ages 12-17

Thrive - Teen Leadership

For Adults:

Wild Wellness - Foraging, Forest Therapy a…

Grab your journal or something to sketch/draw on, go outdoors and find a spot where you can sit. Take a few slow and deep breaths to center your attention and calm yourself. Notice the nature beings around you and create a web by drawing lines from one being to another when there is a connection. Are there any connections between them or you? 

For example, I notice a chickadee on the branch of the birch tree. On…

Nature Connection Challenge - Day 56 - Forage for Dandelion Greens

The humble dandelion has long been valued for its medicinal and nutritive properties and is one of the first and best wild edibles of spring. All parts of this plant can be eaten, but today we will focus on the leaves. These are some of the most nutritious greens you can eat. They contain high amounts of vitamin A, K and C and are high in calcium, folate and inulin (a dietary fiber that helps regulate blood sugar and gut health.…

It can be so much fun to look for evidence of wildlife in your yard or woods, and you often don’t need to look very hard or go very far. Tracks, scats or droppings, a pile of seed hulls or pine cone pieces or other food remnants are all clear indicators that an animal has been in that area. Muddy areas and snow can make it easier to find tracks, and you may even be able to follow the animal’s path for some distance. Keep in mind …

We challenge you to get outdoors when it gets dark and go for a little walk around your yard or down your street, if it’s safe to do so. Or, if you wish, grab a blanket and get snuggly on your front steps or lawn while you observe the night.

The natural world is an amazing place at night. The sounds are different from the daytime and if the sky is clear you can always star or moon gaze. In fact, May 7th was a full moon, so getting outs…

Nature Connection Challenge - Day 53 - Practice Stealth

If you spend time observing nature, you will see that many animals go about their business right under our noses. We often don’t notice them because they have perfected the art of stealth. Predators in particular have adapted ways to stalk their prey without being heard or seen. Meanwhile, most humans walk loudly without noticing the ways we disrupt the quiet order of nature.

Today’s challenge is to practice walking stealthily through a n…

Nature Connection Challenge - Day 52 - Have a Picnic

Today’s challenge is to pack a picnic and go find a beautiful place to eat it. Take time to make a meal that is nutritious and delicious, scout out the perfect picnic spot and enjoy!

Today’s challenge is to climb a tree!

Climbing a tree can be a thrilling experience for a kid (or an adult!) - taking on the challenge and being able to see surroundings from a much higher angle - it’s pretty exciting! Most kids are naturally inclined to climb sensibly, not going too high and doing what feels comfortable to him/her. However, it can be helpful to discuss a few tips to make climbing safer, easier and less stressful for the onl…

Nature Connection Challenge Day 50 - Observe Trees Up Close

Today’s challenge is to get up close to different trees and take notice of all the details and differences. Look closely at the bark on the trunks of a few different trees - does it have ridges? Is the bark flaky or smooth? Dark or light? Is moss or lichen growing on it? What about the buds and leaves? What are the shapes and colors on various trees?

When you slow down and get up close to trees you begin to notice distinct differences…

Nature Connection Challenge - Day 49 - Dig For Worms

Did you know that scientists consider earthworms a keystone species for preserving life on earth? These wiggly workers help create healthy soil, a crucial component for all plant life. These under-appreciated creatures are necessary for us to grow healthy foods, breathe clean air and have thriving ecosystems.

Today’s Challenge is to get your hands dirty and dig up some worms. Take a few moments to watch them and appreciate how something so …